Chardonnay: In-Depth Grape Varietal Profile

What is a Chardonnay Grape?

With an illustrious reputation that travels through vine-laden hills, sun-kissed valleys, and some of the world's most celebrated wine regions, the Chardonnay grape stands as a testament to the art of winemaking. Known for its adaptability, resilience, and exquisite flavor profile, Chardonnay is pivotal in producing a diverse spectrum of wines, ranging from crisp and effervescent sparklings to voluptuous and oaked whites.

The Chardonnay grape is a green-skinned grape variety originating from the Burgundy wine region of eastern France, an area revered for its viticultural heritage. Its journey from the ancient soils of Burgundy to every corner of the globe is a narrative steeped in history, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of quality and expression.

Alternative Names:

Šardone (MKD, BIH), Pinot Chardonnay (ARG, MKD, BIH, AUS, CAN, CHL, RUS), Chardonnay Blanc (MKD, HUN), Morillon, Feinburgunder, Chardonay, Weiss Klewner (BIH), Pinot Giallo (BIH), Pinot Blanc (MAR), Pinot Blanc a Cramant (BIH), Màconnais (BIH), Chaudenet (BIH), Chardenet (BIH), Aubain (BIH), Arnaison Blanc (BIH), Ronci Bilé (HUN), Morillon Blanc (HUN), Kereklevelü (HUN), Pino Blanc (MAR), Gamay Blanc (MAR), Pinot Blanc Chardonnay (ROU), Gentil Blanc (ROU).

Source: OIV

Versatile in Nature, Varied in Expression

Chardonnay's hallmark is undeniably its versatility. It is the most widely planted of the international white grape varieties. In 2015, its vineyard area covered 210,000 ha across 41 countries, and that count is steadily rising every year. The grape possesses a unique ability to mirror the environment in which it's grown, absorbing and reflecting the nuances of the terroir. This quality makes each Chardonnay wine a liquid tapestry of its homeland. From the mineral-rich soils of Chablis to the cool, rolling vineyards of California's Sonoma Coast, the grape’s profile shifts, offering a dynamic palette of flavours and aromas to delight and surprise the discerning palate.

In its purest expression, unadorned by oak, Chardonnay reveals a crisp, clean character with green apple, pear, and citrus notes, often underscored by a vibrant acidity. This style, frequently found in Chablis's stainless-steel fermented and aged wines, delivers a refreshing and straightforward interpretation of the grape, a delightful companion to seafood, salads, and light fare.

When Chardonnay encounters oak—either during fermentation or aging—the wine transforms. The wood introduces an array of complex flavors, including vanilla, butter, caramel, and toast, weaving a rich tapestry that envelops the fruit's natural brightness. This oaked Chardonnay style, often associated with the iconic white Burgundies and many New World expressions, suits palates that crave depth, texture, and a harmonious dance between fruit and oak.

For an in-depth look into the eponymous wine, refer to our In-depth Guide to Chardonnay Wine. We answer the most commonly asked questions: What does Chardonnay taste like with a complete set of tasting notes? How to serve Chardonnay? How do oaked Chardonnays differ from their unoaked counterparts? Compare warm climate Chardonnay to cooler climate Chardonnay. How do French, California, and Oregon Pinot Noir wines differ? And so much more.

Fun Facts about Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a fascinating grape with a wealth of interesting facts surrounding it. Below are five fun facts that are not commonly known:

• Chardonnay’s “Birthday”: Researchers have discovered that the Chardonnay grape is the result of a cross between two other grape varieties: the Pinot and the Gouais Blanc. This “marriage” of grapes is believed to have occurred spontaneously around the 12th century, making Chardonnay somewhat of a “medieval” grape. The Gouais Blanc grape is almost extinct today but has played a significant role in the development of many classic varieties.
• Traveling in Style with Monks: The spread of Chardonnay through France and eventually to the rest of the world is largely attributed to the Cistercian monks. These monks were meticulous in their vineyard practices and wine production, documenting variations and characteristics of different vines, which provided valuable knowledge for future generations of vintners.
• International Chardonnay Day: Celebrating its global appeal, it is observed annually. It usually takes place on the Thursday before Memorial Day in May. Wine enthusiasts worldwide participate in events and tastings, sharing their experiences and favorite bottles on social media.
• Chardonnay in a Can: With the rising trend of canned wines for convenience and portability, Chardonnay has found its way into this niche market. These aren’t just low-quality wines either; many reputable wineries have begun offering high-quality, delicious Chardonnay in cans, making it easier to enjoy at picnics, beaches, or casual gatherings without needing a corkscrew or wine glasses. But even better, a can carries a fraction of the carbon footprint of a glass bottle.
• The Judgement of Paris: While the event itself is famous, many might not know that a Chardonnay from Chateau Montelena in Napa Valley helped put New World wines on the map during the 1976 Judgement of Paris. In a blind tasting, French judges awarded this Californian Chardonnay first place over several famous white Burgundies, shaking the wine industry and elevating the status of wines produced outside the traditional European regions.

Cultivating Excellence: The Art and Science Behind Chardonnay's Viticulture

With its illustrious history and widespread acclaim, the Chardonnay grape doesn't achieve its greatness by chance. Behind every bottle lies an intricate dance of nature, grounded in soil, climate, and human intervention. Viticulture, or the cultivation of grapevines, is both an art and a science and when it comes to Chardonnay, this process is particularly nuanced. By understanding the complexities of nurturing these vines, we gain deeper insight into the makings of some of the world's most beloved white wines.

The Growth Saga: Unraveling Chardonnay's Vine Characteristics

As a vine, Chardonnay is as intriguing as the wine it produces. Its growth patterns and characteristics culminate centuries of evolution and adaptation.

• Budding and Ripening: Chardonnay vines typically bud early in the spring, making them susceptible to late spring frosts. However, the ripening process is more moderate, ensuring the development of complex flavours in the grapes, especially when the ripening occurs under cooler conditions.
• Vine Morphology: Chardonnay vines possess leaves that are dark green in hue with five lobes. The grape bunches are relatively small, with thin skins. This thin skin contributes to the grape's delicate flavours and makes it susceptible to certain external factors, such as pests and diseases.
• Yield Management: Yield management becomes crucial for winemakers aiming to produce high-quality Chardonnay wines. Lower yields generally lead to more concentrated flavours in the grapes. Through green harvesting (removing excess grape bunches) and canopy management, vintners can control the vine's energy distribution, directing it towards the desired grape bunches.

Nature's Canvas: Chardonnay's Affinity for Climate and Soil

Every grape variety has its preferences, and for Chardonnay, the climatic and soil conditions play pivotal roles in shaping the wine's final profile.

• Climatic Tendencies: Chardonnay thrives in various climates, from the cool coastal regions of Chablis to the warmer terrains of California. In cooler climates, Chardonnay produces wines with crisp acidity, green apple, and citrus notes. In contrast, warmer regions yield wines with fuller bodies, boasting tropical fruit flavors and sometimes a buttery texture.
• Soil Types: Chardonnay has an affinity for well-drained soils. In regions like Chablis, the limestone-rich soils lend the wine distinct mineral qualities. Similarly, in regions with volcanic or clayey soils, the grape absorbs distinct characteristics mirrored in the wine's flavor profile.

Guardians of the Vine: Battling Diseases and Pests

With its thin-skinned grapes and early budding tendencies, Chardonnay faces its fair share of challenges in the form of diseases and pests.

• Powdery Mildew: A common ailment in many vineyards, powdery mildew can affect Chardonnay grapes, leading to yield loss and flavor dilution. Timely interventions and canopy management are essential to prevent its spread.
• Botrytis Bunch Rot: While this fungal disease can sometimes be beneficial for certain wine styles (like Sauternes), it's deemed a menace in most Chardonnay vineyards. It can lead to significant grape loss if not addressed in time.
• Grape Berry Moth: This pest threatens Chardonnay vines, as the larvae feed on the grape berries, leading to berry loss and making them susceptible to other diseases.
• Phylloxera: While not specific to Chardonnay, this louse can devastate vineyards. The solution has been grafting European vines onto resistant American rootstocks.